Marieke's Art of Living

For many, Rajasthan is the very essence of India, with crenulated forts and impregnable palaces that rise like giant fairy-tale sets above dusty sun-scorched plains and shimmering lakes. India's second-largest state -- similar in size to France -- is largely covered by the ever-encroaching Thar Desert, but despite its aridity, Rajasthan was once remarkably prosperous: Traders from as far afield as Persia and China had to cross its dry plains to reach the southern ports of Gujarat, something the warrior princes of Rajasthan were quick to capitalize on.

Once a patchwork of independent states ruled by princes renowned for their valour on the battlefield and spendthrift ways, the region has long been a favourite with visitors drawn to its mighty hill forts, bejewelled palaces, vibrant markets and desert villages.

With 32 districts Rajasthan is the largest state in India. The famous desert Thar shrouds most of the region of Rajasthan. Agriculture being the mainstay of the state, the region produces sugarcane, pulses, oilseeds, cotton and tobacco. The state is well connected by rail, road and air. The state is also the largest producer of sandstone and marble. The state has myriad eye-catching destinations which witness innumerable number of tourists from across the world including the palaces of Jaipur, desert forts of Jaisalmer and the lakes of Udaipur.